For many of us, summer means shifting fitness routines into high gear. Some of you like to hit the gym before work, go for long runs in the evening, or simply play outdoors with the kids on weekends. No matter how you stay active, your body needs the right power source.
However, when you’re busy, choosing a meal that supports your training can be tough. Fast food is often blamed as the enemy of fitness, but sushi is the exception to the rule for summer. If you know what to order, a sushi stop can be the ideal post-workout recovery meal.
The Cooling Factor: Why Sushi Works for Summer
Have you ever felt sluggish and overheated after a burger or hot chips? That is often called the thermic effect of food. Digesting heavy or hot meals requires a lot of energy, and eventually raises your body temperature. For a comfortable workout, you don’t need any more heat than the sun.
Sushi works differently. Interestingly, protein (one of the main nutrients in sushi) has the highest thermic effect compared to fats and carbs. While this means great for fat loss, the form matters. A heavy hot roast in summer hits you with both digestive and physical heat.
Sushi is served cool or at room temperature. It helps calm the immediate body temp spike from eating hot meals. Also, most sushi is naturally lower in saturated fats so your body doesn’t have to work hard to digest. The key is to choose the right sushi.
Sushi Options for Your Fitness
Don’t let the summer get you. Grab these sushi options to keep you energized during the workout.
1. Sashimi: Pure protein for pre and post-workout
Strictly watching your macros or looking for a low-carb option? Sashimi is your go-to. Salmon Sashimi Pack provides high-quality protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. No hidden additives, meaning it’s clean and lean fuel. Omega-3s are great for joint health, and the protein from fatty fish supports recovery after a serious workout. So, if you’re working out near our locations, stop by and order a whole pack of this.
2. Chicken and Tuna Handrolls: The post-workout recovery
After a workout, your body doesn’t only need protein. It also needs carbs to replenish glycogen stores in your muscles. Our classic handrolls are perfect for this. The sushi rice gives your body quick-release energy, while the filling repairs the muscle. At Pika Sushi, you can pick either of the chicken or tuna fillings.
Chicken Teriyaki Avocado Handroll is packed with a solid chicken protein with a bit of sweetness, which is great for a midday energy boost. Tuna Avocado Handroll sources a dense protein from the tuna. Combined with the fibre and healthy fats of the avocado, the roll becomes a balanced mini-meal in your palm. For hydration, you can pick cucumber-filled options, such as Veggie Special Roll or Tuna Cucumber Handroll.
3. Nigiri: Light, but necessary
Nigiri, a slice of raw fish on top of a small mound of rice, is the perfect middle ground. You get a higher protein-to-rice ratio than a roll, but still get those necessary carbs for energy. For your light lunch, order our Salmon Nigiri.
The Takeaway
Here is a simple cheat sheet to remember the next time you finish a workout session:
- For light and lean option: Salmon Sashimi Pack
- Energy and recovery: A couple of Chicken Teriyaki Avocado or Tuna Avocado Handrolls
- For taste and balance: Salmon Nigiri Pack
Being consistent with your food is as important as your fitness routine. Pika Sushi makes it easier for you to grab a healthy meal, so you can get back to doing what you love.
